Ilam Travel Guide
Christchurch
Popular places to visit
University of Canterbury
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Canterbury during your trip to Christchurch. Visit the shops and charming cafes in this walkable area.
Sumner Beach
The main beach in the seaside retreat of Sumner is an idyllic place to spend a day in the sun away from the centre of Christchurch.
Lyttelton Harbour
Enjoy cafés, markets and boat trips at this scenic European port town, steeped in history and bordered by volcanic hills.
Hagley Park
Explore the great outdoors at Hagley Park, a lovely green space in Christchurch. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
New Brighton Beach
Surf, spot birdlife, walk across wild sand dunes and shop for handmade goods at a weekly market at this sandy beach and coastal suburb.
Cathedral Square
You can learn about the history of Christchurch when you stop by Cathedral Square. Visit the cathedral in this walkable area or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Things to do
Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch
Christchurch to Arthur's Pass Tours + TranzAlpine Train & Lunch
Waipara Valley Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch
Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch with Lunch
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill
Top hotels in Ilam
Bealey Quarter
The staff is generally good, especially Tariq, apart from him, the staff is rude
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
BreakFree on Cashel Christchurch
Although compact it was very clean, comfortable and convenient.
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Novotel Christchurch Airport
The Hotel rooms and location are ok. The resturant and bar is a disgrace.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
LyLo Christchurch
Lots of free food left by people before flights. Any extras available at close large Woolworths supermarket. Walk easy to airport even with luggage. Read the available email instructions because it's very self check in self help. Will stay when need some hours before early flight or late ...
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Sudima Christchurch Airport
Easy access to Christchurch Airport - we walked there in under 10 mins.
Reviewed on 1 May 2026
Hotel Give
Perfect place to stay after a late flight home. Kids and I all had our own beds and didn’t cost an arm and a leg to get a good rest before we drove home 2 hours away.
Reviewed on 1 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Ilam
Burnside
Travellers come to Burnside for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Jellie Park Recreation and Sport Centre and Russley Golf Club while you're in town.
Fendalton
Travellers like the historical sites in Fendalton, and Mona Vale is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Riccarton
Riccarton is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Westfield Riccarton Mall and Riccarton Road.
Wigram
Parks and entertainment venues are just a few things travellers like about Wigram. A stop by Air Force Museum of New Zealand is also recommended if you've got time to explore the area.
Merivale
Travellers come to Merivale for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Merivale Mall and Papanui Road while you're in town.
Christchurch Airport
While Christchurch Airport may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like International Antarctic Centre and Harewood Golf Club.
